Using Technology to Maximize In-Services

Through my experience as a teacher, a member of a professional committee, and through discussions with administrators, it seems that planning meaningful in-service days for teachers is a challange many adminstrative teams face.  Unfortunately, these days are often used inefficiently, which in small by steady ways, erodes the credibility of administrators.  Fortunately, technology can provide ways to maximize in-service time. 

From a simple time standpoint, travel time to and from various district schools could be eliminated.  Many times have been required to arrive early to in-service meetings, just to avoid the hassle of having to park inconveniently distant from the building.  The use of Skype, professional chat rooms, or discussion boards could eliminate this unnecessary issue.  What I hear most from teachers is that their time is too short to be used wastefully.  These technologies address this challenge.

Many districts present a single book for their employees to read.  At my school, past principals have sent an article to teachers' homes with the welcome back information packet at the end of the summer.  A website such as Book It Club could serve as a way for teachers to get the conversations started before they even physically return.  Once again, the efficiency in the use of time would rise dramatically.  Teachers would be able to share insights at leisure and then use them as a starting point once in-services begin at the start of the year. 


I believe effective principals support and guide teachers to be their best.  Respectful use of their time is one of the most valuable ways to acheive this goal.